Protective orders
Protective orders, for you and your children
A protective order is a court order telling someone to stay away from you, your home or your children. We help you ask for one, or answer one filed against you.
Many courts can issue a temporary order quickly, sometimes on the day you file, and then set a hearing for a longer one. We help you write down what happened, gather what shows it, and stand beside you at the hearing.
If an order has been filed against you, we help you respond, and we explain what it means for your home, your job and time with your children while it lasts.
We can help with
Asking for a temporary and a full order
Answering a petition filed against you
Changing or ending an order
Custody and support while an order is in place
Staying safe while the case is open
Leave this site fast
The Leave this site button at the top of every page opens a weather site straight away.
Cover your tracks
If someone else can see this device, use a private window or clear this site from your history.
Tell us how to reach you
We call, text or email only the way you say is safe, and we won't leave a message unless you say it's okay.
Asked about protective orders
Do I need a lawyer to get a protective order?
No. You can file for one yourself. A lawyer helps most at the hearing, where the other side may bring one, and when custody or the home are part of the order.
Will the other person learn where I live?
In many cases the court can keep your address off the papers. Tell us early if this worries you, and we will ask for it.
What if the order changes when I see my kids?
A protective order can set temporary custody terms. We look at the order and any custody case together, so one doesn't undo the other.
Talk to a lawyer about an order
Call the office nearest you. If it isn't safe to talk, send a message and tell us how to reach you.
In danger right now? Call 911.